We arrived in Minnesota in mid-May to spend time with my (Michael) family. Because I grew up here, some things are still familiar. But because I left a long time ago, a lot has changed, and my relationship with this place is… complex. It’s not home. It’s where mom is, my brother and his family are, and one or two old friends; so, it’s lovely to visit. But it’s not home. And even though I lived most of my life in Seattle, last year’s visit proved that it’s not home anymore ei

Our high-octane tourist mode continued after Madrid, into Germany. While we visit Germany yearly, we have not made time to be a tourist there. What do you explore as a tourist in Germany? Castles! And, yes, Romans! Moselle The part of the Moselle river valley that snakes its way through Germany is beautiful countryside. The narrow, steep-sided valley, dotted with castle ruins, covered with terraced vineyards, anchored by the river, makes for a meandering and scenic drive. Our